Independence Day Comes to Life in New Musical

"The Declaration of Independence: the Real Story" premieres tonight

The Declaration of Independence will come to life this Wednesday and Thursday.

"Slavery, treason, and the right to revolt, and the kids saving America," said playwright Mariner Pezza.

In light of Independence Day, the Crystal Theater will present its new musical play "The Declaration of Independence - The Real Story" at the Ben Franklin Theater.

Written by Mariner Pezza with music composed by Cheryl Kemeny, the story follows our country's founders in 1776 as they debate whether to declare independence amidst a sub story of intrigue and romance played out in Independence Hall and the city taverns of Philadelphia.

"There would be waiters and waitresses not only in the Taverns, but Independence Hall itself, serving tea and crumpets and attending to the delegates needs and some of them were coerced to spying for tories," said Pezza.

Mariner Pezza says although it was initially written as a children's play, many parents joined to perform alongside their children. About 30 men teamed up with teenage actors to play the delegates.

"It brings the kids into the story of our founding fathers," said John Markow who plays Ben Franklin. "Not only did Mariner do some great research, but he's also got the kids involved in a sub-story, which is really intriguing. It brings the audience in."

"They struggled with the moral underpinnings with this right to revolt," said Mariner. "And the common man just didn't do that and the penalties for treason and revolting were horrendous."

The play begins tonight (7/2) at 8 p.m. and Thursday (7/3) at 6:30 p.m. at the Ben Franklin Theater on 66 Bayview Avenue. For ticket information visit: www.crystaltheatre.org